‘Writing Fragments Home’

Jay (Jomar Tagatac) is the son of Filipino immigrants. His widowed mother, Mary Gwen (Jen Cuevas), is a hard-working nurse with a bad back. She loves her 40-year-old son, but makes him sleep on the couch and wishes he would get a real job.

During Jay’s attempts to write about two people attracted to each other, their scene is enacted by actors played by Brigitte Losey and Jamiel St. Rose, who both play several roles in the play. If this scene is any indication of Jay’s talents, it’s no wonder his plays haven’t been produced.

During conversations with his mom, Jay learns more about his Filipino heritage and why his parents left the Philippines and settled in the Bay Area: Even though they were doing well in their home country, they wanted a good life for their son.

In other dream or fantasy scenes, Jay talks with his father, Ronaldo (Jepoy Ramos), who died when Jay was in his early teens. During their talks, Jay gains insight into his heritage as well as the obstacles faced by his Filipino parents.

Although the first act involves arguments between mother and son, their discussions grow more serious in the second. Still, much of the drama is amply interspersed with humor.

The second act begins with a celebration of Mary Gwen’s birthday. When Jay brings out the cake, he sings “Happy Birthday” in Tagalog and invites the audience to join in. Many do.

Production values are high, thanks to an excellent cast, direction by Reed Flores, the living room set by Christopher Fitzer, mood lighting by Pamila Gray, costumes by Nolan Miranda (the audience liked Jay’s Warriors T-shirt with the number 30 in the second act) and sound by Alan Chang.

Running about two and a half hours with an intermission, “Writing Fragments Home” will continue through May 4 at Hillbarn Theatre, 1285 E. Hillsdale Blvd., Foster City.

For tickets and information call (650) 349-6411 or visit hillbarntheatre.org.